Charlotte Murray murder accused to stand trial

THE former partner of Charlotte Murray, who was reported missing in 2013, is to stand trial for her murder later this year, following a hearing at Dungannon Crown Court sitting in Belfast.

John Patrick Miller (48) who is originally from Coleraine but now resides at Redford Park, Dungannon, replied “not guilty’” when the charge of murder on a date between October 31 and November 2, 2012, was put to him.

During the brief hearing, Mr Justice Colton was advised the trial, which is to begin in September, is expected to last up to four weeks.

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However as yet no venue has been selected as Miller’s defence team said that there may be “some prejudice” if the case was tried in the Tyrone-Fermanagh court division.
The judge said he would review the position of a venue in two weeks’ time.

No details were given in court of the circumstances surrounding the case. However, during a previous hearing at Dungannon Magistrates Court, a detective sergeant said police believe Miller murdered Charlotte after he became aware she had a brief relationship with another man.

Originally from Omagh, Charlotte had been living in Moy, and worked in the Cohannon Inn nearby with Miller.

Charlotte’s family reported her missing in 2013 and afterwards the disappearance would be upgraded to a murder enquiry.

Despite extensive police inquiries and appeals for information, the detective said her body has never been found.

He said detectives were also searching for a missing computer, and a mobile phone which police believe may offer valuable evidence, along with an engagement ring Charlotte bought in March 2012.